According to the state-backed Global Times newspaper, Chinese companies plan to request that authorities open an anti-dumping investigation into imports of some pork products from the European Union. The report, citing an unidentified “business insider,” provided no further details.
China imported a total of 1.55 million metric tons of pork in 2023, with the EU accounting for more than half of the total, according to customs data.
The report comes as trade tensions between the EU and China are intensifying. The EU has been conducting investigations into various imports from China in an effort to protect home-grown manufacturers. In January, China opened an investigation into brandy imported from the EU.
Earlier this month, the EU launched an investigation into flat-rolled products of iron or steel plated or coated with tin from China. The European Commission is also investigating China-made electric vehicles, which is expected to lead to additional duties.
Last week, a Chinese auto industry body expert called on China to consider raising tariffs on imported cars with engines larger than 2.5 liters, according to the Global Times report.
The potential investigation into EU pork imports reflects China’s efforts to protect its domestic industries amid the ongoing trade tensions with the EU. The move could further escalate the economic and political rivalry between the two major trading partners.